Since April 1991, the Köstritzer black beer brewery, a subsidiary of the Bitburger brewery, has emerged as of one of the most modern breweries in Thuringia. In September 1993, it was with great pride we (re-) introduced the "original Köstritzer black beer".

Nearly black with ruby highlights. A slight tan head develops but disappears quickly. Interesting aroma of coffee, chocolate, and vegetables. Medium bodied, fairly lively. I’m not quite sold on the flavor. It starts pretty good with coffee, bitter chocolate, and chicory. The finish is a bit of a disappointment. A touch of smoke but an aftertaste of ash. Not a bad beer.

330ml bottle. 1/7/16 code date. Appearance: Black and opaque, with a thick, creamy khaki cap and nice lacing.
Aroma: Caramel and light roasted malt. No hop presence.
Taste: Starts with bready malt sweetness, turns to some caramel and touch of dark fruit, and finishes with roasted malt and bitterness.
Mouthfeel: Medium body with a light to moderate carbonation.
Finish: Very dry finish, with a hint of lingering roast.
Overall: Good example of the style. roast is present throughout, but never sharp or overpowering. Has some dark fruit characteristics typical of dark German lagers. Light enough on the palate to remain easy drinking.

The beer has a dark reddish brown color. The foam has a beautiful almond color and is soft. After the bulk had disappeared, a thin drape remains on top of the beef. The smell is average. The smell of the beer is to sweet. The sweet smell is again a little bready. In a distance there is some roasted barley. This little aroma is nice. The taste is a bit better. The bitter and dark taste of roasted barley is present. But not strong enough. The beer misses a lot of sophistication. The beer gets better after every sip. The beer also has a tiny hop taste.

500ml can.
L: very dark cola, slightly transparent, fizzy tan head quickly gone.
S: toasty bready malts mixed with dark berries. Very nice.
T: similar to the smell.
F: mouthfeel is the attraction here. It’s has the aroma of a stronger beer, then hits with some carbonation and a lighter body. So easy to drink but remaining full of flavour.
O: many schwarzbiers have a promising nose yet come off watery. This one delivers.

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